Back o' the Moon, and other stories

"Back o' the Moon and Other Stories" by Oliver Onions is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The stories explore life in the Yorkshire countryside, focusing on themes of community, tradition, and the rustic character of the region. The characters, such as the new parson and various members of the local community, are depicted with rich detail, reflecting their interactions and conflicts within this close-knit society. The beginning of the collection introduces the new parson assigned to Wadsworth, a small village in Yorkshire. As he arrives, he is met with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism from the local folk, who perceive him as an outsider. The parson's observations about the village provide a vivid picture of the landscape and the traditional practices of its people. He quickly realizes that the village is steeped in unique customs, both quaint and humorous. The narrative sets the stage for an exploration of his experiences as he engages with the local community, highlighting their eccentricities and the challenges he faces in this rural setting.